Project Overview

The Chinatown Public Health Center (CPHC) Improvement Project is the first major renovation of this vital community clinic since its opening in 1971. Located at 1490 Mason St., CPHC is the most seismically vulnerable public health clinic in the City. It provides culturally competent, multilingual primary care, mental health, dental and nutrition services, accommodating more than 19,000 annual patient visits. More than 80% of the patients speak Chinese dialects.
 

Funded through the voter-approved 2024 Healthy, Safe and Vibrant San Francisco Bond, the project supports citywide efforts to retrofit critical public health infrastructure, boost resilience and improve health outcomes for San Francisco residents.

This full-scale renovation includes a complete seismic retrofit, modern rooftop mechanical systems, enhanced air quality, accessibility upgrades and an interior reconfiguration to co-locate the Chinatown Child Development Center. The result will be a greatly improved integration of medical dental, and mental health services to better serve the community.

Construction is scheduled to start in spring 2026 and be completed in 2028. The upgrades will transform the 30,000-square-footfacility into a state-of-the-art health care hub. 
 
 

Project Features
 

Structural and Infrastructure Upgrades

• Full seismic retrofit to address San Francisco Health Network’s highest vulnerability rating
• Comprehensive mechanical system overhaul, including HVAC modernization, full electrification and air quality and ventilation upgrades
• Hazardous material abatement and improved building controls
• Solar panel system expansion and modernization

Enhanced Clinical Capacity and Accessibility

• Expanded medical facilities: more exam and consultation rooms, enlarged dental clinic, and modernized women/infant care and nutrition spaces
• Co-location of Chinatown Child Development Center: brings behavioral and child development services on-site for integrated, culturally sensitive care
• ADA improvements: barrier-free access, upgraded restrooms, elevator enhancements, and accessible circulation

Interior Design and Public Art

• Full interior renovation of approximately 30,000 square feet across three floors
• Public art installations: major artwork opportunities include a 260 ft² exterior mosaic wall and interior installations at three patient waiting areas, reflecting Chinatown’s cultural heritage

Operational Continuity

• To ensure uninterrupted patient care during construction, CPHC will temporarily relocate its services to the 4th floor of Chinese Hospital, just blocks away. This proactive measure minimizes disruptions for patients and maintains trusted access to care throughout the renovation period.